Essentials for New Student

Stepping into university life is both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you’re starting in a new country. Monash University Malaysia proudly welcomes its vibrant international student community each semester, offering not just academic excellence, but also a multicultural environment for you to grow, connect, and thrive. Whether you’re from across the region or a country far away, your journey here marks the beginning of an unforgettable chapter. Here are several important things that can help create a smoother adaptation process into your university life.

To kickstart your university experience, make sure you’ve sorted out the essentials:

  • Student ID and iKad: Your Monash ID gives you access to campus facilities, events, and more. If you’re an international student, iKad serves as your official identity card while studying in Malaysia. To get more information regarding these two, drop by the Student Hub to ask questions!
  • Timetable and Units: Familiarize yourself with Web Enrollment System (WES) and Allocate+ so you can allocate your subjects early. This will help you secure your desired class slots faster and easier!
  • Transport: Sunway City offers a free bus shuttle service that runs around Sunway, including to and from our campus. You can download the Sunway Super App for the bus route and operating hours. The BRT is also available and more reliable. For cheaper fares, you can apply for a student concession card that will get you 50% off for all public transportation in Malaysia. Check myRapid Concession Form for more information.
  • Banking & Finance: Set up a Maybank account to make daily transactions easier! Remember that you need to submit your passport to campus by the time you arrive in Malaysia to get your student visa sticker and it takes a month for it to be returned. You can only register for a Maybank account after your passport has been returned to you with a student visa, so in the meantime, ensure you have sufficient cash! For more details, visit the Maybank office on campus, located right next to Subway.
  • Health Insurance & Support: International students are automatically enrolled in health cover. Get to know your coverage and the campus health services.
  • Things to Have Around: Malaysia’s weather can be a bit harsh, ranging from scorching sun to thunderstorms—sometimes both in one day! Always have an umbrella, a water tumbler, and a portable fan (if needed) with you!

Transitioning to university, especially in a different culture, takes time and effort. Here are some tips to make things less stressful:

  • Join Student Clubs: Monash University Malaysia has a wide range of clubs, including student associations of different countries. Join events from your respective country’s student association to feel less homesick!
  • Attend Orientation Events: Orientation week is crucial for new students as it provides valuable information that can help you understand how things work in Monash University Malaysia. This is also a perfect opportunity to make new friends! Remember, everyone else is just like you—new, curious, and unfamiliar. So don’t be afraid to reach out and say hi to someone sitting or standing next to you!
  • Time Management: Here in Monash, most subjects require a lot of independent learning including pre-class reading, quizzes, and online lectures. Make sure you plan and organize your studies so you can balance it with a good social life.
  • Ask for Help: If you’re feeling homesick, overwhelmed, or other psychological distress, keep in mind that Monash offers free counseling services for all students. Don’t hesitate to reach out, because here in Monash, you are never alone.

Visit this link for more information: Counselling & Wellness – Monash University Malaysia

University is not just about grades, it’s about growth. Make time for new friendships, explore Malaysian culture, and stay curious!  Monash University Malaysia is more than just a campus, it’s a vibrant, global community where you belong. Welcome aboard, and here’s to a journey filled with endless possibilities!